U.S. Air Force Expands MH-139A Grey Wolf Fleet
Philadelphia, October 8, 2025 – The U.S. Air Force has secured a significant contract exceeding $173 million with Boeing to manufacture an additional eight MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters. This agreement also includes comprehensive training and sustainment services.
Enhancements to National Security Capabilities
Azeem Khan, the program director for the MH-139 initiative, emphasized the helicopter’s advanced attributes, stating, “The MH-139A provides enhanced speed, extended range, and increased payload capacity, which are essential for supporting U.S. national security operations.” He expressed enthusiasm about deploying these sophisticated aircraft to various bases nationwide.
Fleet Expansion and Future Deployments
This recent order comes on the heels of a $178 million contract awarded last April for seven helicopters. With this expansion, the total number of MH-139A helicopters under contract now stands at 34. The initial set of these aircraft is expected to be stationed at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota.
- Operational Readiness: The Air Force has recently finalized Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) flights. The MH-139A program is progressing toward achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC), marking a crucial milestone in its development.
Production and Delivery Updates
To date, Boeing has successfully delivered 18 helicopters, which includes 12 units from the low-rate initial production phase. Earlier this year, the company completed deliveries for the first operational unit stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, with plans to deliver four additional helicopters before the year concludes.
Multi-Mission Versatility
The MH-139A Grey Wolf is engineered from the widely recognized Leonardo Helicopters AW139 platform. Boeing has integrated specialized military equipment tailored for diverse operations, including:
- Patrol: Enhancing surveillance and security capabilities.
- Search and Rescue: Supporting critical missions in emergency situations.
- Troop and Cargo Transport: Facilitating efficient movement of personnel and supplies.
Strengthening Partnerships and National Security
Robert Beyer, the senior program manager for the MH-139 at Leonardo Helicopters, highlighted the collaborative efforts that have led to this advanced aircraft’s success. “The MH-139A Grey Wolf epitomizes the synergy of partnership and proven performance. By leveraging the established AW139 platform, we have delivered a multipurpose aircraft that is already proving its worth to the U.S. Air Force. Each production increment bolsters our commitment to enhancing national security while fostering American manufacturing and employment.”
Conclusion
Overall, the expansion of the MH-139A Grey Wolf fleet underscores the U.S. Air Force’s dedication to modernizing its capabilities, ensuring effective support for comprehensive national security missions, and enhancing operational readiness across the board.
